Achuar

The word Shuar simply means “people”. The Shuar are the second largest and one of the most studied Amazonian groups. They have a long history of survival and defence against outsiders. They live in the south-eastern part of Ecuador between the Pastaza and Marañón Rivers, east of Cuenca along the contested border region with Peru –a rocky region covering approximately 25,000 square miles along the lower eastern slopes of the Andes. The Shuar’s geographic location, with the backdrop of the Andes to the west and angry rapids in the rivers to the east, has protected them from outside interference and has helped them to retain their independence.

The Achuar –as well as some of the other groups on the border of the Peruvian side –are related to the Shuar. They share the same area, many of the same customs, traditions and also speak a similar language.

Kapawi Lodge is built on land owned by the Achuar Organisation, and the lodge (currently jointly owned by the Achuar and a private enterprise) will become wholly owned by the Achuar in 2011. Profits from this project enable the Achuar to remain in their homelands.